Making my first yarn.

I've kept pretty tight-lipped about things I'm working on in the past, but this one is just too good to keep a secret. If you caught the #juliehooveryarn hashtag on my last Instagram post, you may have already guessed the news—I'm making yarn!

I'll go as far as calling it my first yarn in the hopes it won't be the last, but I'm taking it all very slowly. This yarn has been in the works for over six months. What you see here is a 50/50 blend of baby yak and baby cashmere. It's my fiber heart on my sleeve.

The best part about this yarn, by far, is it's ethically and respectfully sourced directly from the same Tibetan nomads that my dear friends at mYak Tibetan Fiber source their yarns. I can't thank them enough for excitedly working with me to make that happen. (Take a moment to learn mYak’s story.)

I’m aiming for a yarn that falls into the DK weight range. The process has been months of testing spin and twist and final ply weight to meet my exacting standard of knitted fabric. (And lots of anxious waiting in between.)

The mill trials come on cones, but it's not yet the finished state of yarn it will become. That means I need to wind some off, clean out the dirt and oil residue, and get to know it. Even in this state, it's irresistible. You're seeing it here in its natural, undyed color. Because I value sustainability and my impact on the planet, the dying process will not involve any depigmentation (harsh chemicals). The result is a rich, natural undertone.

Happily, I'm beyond the trial stage, and some very talented artisans are spinning the yarn in Italy right now. I should have the first finished skeins in my hands in a few weeks. Initially, I will be offering the yarn in two classic neutral tweed colors for Sweater Club, then a small amount each of four solid colors will follow. While the yarn will be available for Sweater Club pre-order at the beginning, there should be plenty remaining for individual skein orders afterwards, as well.

Now that you're in on the big news, you'll understand that I still have a lot of work ahead before it will be ready. I'll keep you up to date through Instagram and my newsletter (bottom of page) as things come together, so you can follow along.

As you can imagine, I am very nervous but also incredibly excited. Thank you for your support and your patience, and please share this with your knitting friends!